Israeli airstrikes targeted multiple buildings in Tyre, Lebanon’s southern coastal city, sending massive clouds of black smoke into the air. The nearby town of Maarakeh reported three fatalities.

Prior to the strikes, Israel issued evacuation warnings to dozens of buildings in Tyre’s city center, advising residents to move north of the Awali River. This precaution likely prevented casualties in Tyre, despite significant damage to six buildings, four of which were flattened.

The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has intensified since Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack from Gaza. Hezbollah has launched rockets into Israel, including two that triggered air raid sirens in Tel Aviv before being intercepted.

The situation remains dire:

– Over 2,500 killed in Lebanon since the conflict began

– 1 million displaced since September

– 60 killed on the Israeli side, half of them soldiers

– 60,000 displaced due to near-daily rocket barrages

Tyre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been largely spared until recently. However, strikes in and around the city have increased, putting civilians and heritage sites at risk.